Complicating matters is the fact homeowners don't own the land their houses are on. That's owned by Ngati Whare Trust.

The Government has made some improvements in the village, insulating homes and providing fast broadband. And the neighbouring Whirinaki Forest, returned to the iwi in 2009, is another possible economic lifeline.

"The Whirinaki Forest is unique in the true sense of the word and offers tremendous potential for tourism," says Mr Finlayson.